Duty of Care

A vetting process where operators assess a subcontractor's safety record, insurance, and certifications before awarding work. Companies must meet minimum standards to be added to an approved vendor list. Failing pre-qualification means being locked out of bidding opportunities entirely.

Any part that contains or holds pressurised fluid, such as a valve, fitting, or vessel wall. Subcontractors handling these parts must meet strict inspection and certification requirements. Improper installation or repair can trigger liability, stop-work orders, or regulatory penalties.

A North American trade body that sets performance standards for personal protective equipment (PPE). Subcontractors should verify that hard hats, high-visibility vests, and eye protection meet ISEA standards. Many operator and general contractor safety plans require ISEA-compliant PPE on site.

A directive to halt all work on-site, issued by the prime contractor or owner — most often to address an immediate safety concern or incident. Crews stop billable activities until the issue is resolved and a formal all-clear is issued; depending on contract terms, standby rates may or may not apply. Stand downs can be site-wide or scoped to a specific trade or work area.

A formal government notice announcing a regulation under development that may affect your operations, safety requirements, or labour standards. Subcontractors should monitor NOPRs to anticipate compliance costs before rules become law. Responding during the public comment period can help protect your interests.

A targeted OSHA enforcement initiative that focuses inspections on high-hazard industries or specific workplace dangers. Subcontractors in oil and gas or construction are frequently subject to NEP audits. Being on an active NEP site means heightened scrutiny of your crew's documentation, PPE, and safety procedures.

When a Jobsite Incident Happens: What Field Workers Need to Know Before Signing Anything

What to do after a jobsite injury or incident, what your rights are before signing incident reports, how workers' compensation works, and how to protect yourself on multi-employer worksites.

OSHA Citations on Multi-Employer Worksites: What Subcontractors Need to Know

Learn how OSHA's multi-employer citation policy works, why subcontractors get cited for hazards they didn't create, and how to protect your company on operator-controlled job sites.

How to Read and Negotiate an Oilfield Master Service Agreement (MSA): A Subcontractor's Guide

Learn which MSA clauses actually matter for oilfield subcontractors: indemnity, insurance, payment terms, and change orders. Know what you're signing.